Why is Cervical Cancer Screening important? 

With January being Cervical Cancer Awareness Month Dr Katy Kasraie, General Practitioner at Harley Street’s private medical clinic The London General Practice, offers some insight and advice into Cervical cancer screening.

Early testing can help prevent the development of cancer and Cervical screening is a very important test for early detection of cell changes of the cervix. 

Cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer in females in the UK and attributed to 850 deaths each year. 99.8% of cervical cancer cases in the UK are caused by HR-HPV or persistent High Risk Human Papilloma Virus infection. Cervical cancer is now highly preventable through HPV vaccination of 12-13 year olds, but for ages of 25 and 64 years women are advised to go for regular cervical screening under the NHS cervical screening programme.

“Cervical screening should not be delayed as it is one of the best ways to protect yourself against cervical cancer. So if you have received an invitation, or missed your last screening, don’t delay making an appointment as getting checked can save your life.”

At a cervical screening appointment, a doctor or nurse will take a sample of cells from the cervix. The sample is tested for highrisk human papilloma virus (HR-HPV). If HPV is found (positive results), then cytology is performed on the sample. This looks for abnormal cell changes in the cervical cells. If the cells look normal, then usually a repeat HR-HPV test will be recommended in 6-12 months. If abnormal cell changes are found, patients may be referred for a colposcopy where by further samples can be taken of any abnormal areas and treatment given if necessary.

If you are interested in Cervical Cancer Screening and would like an appointment with a Private Harley Street GP then please get in touch with us here.